Born: Sunday Aug-07-1955
Died: Thursday Jul-24-2025
Funeral: Saturday Aug-09-2025

Morrison Funeral Home
& Crematory
188 S. Hwy 24
Rupert, Idaho 83350
Contact and Directions

Fred Hobbs made his grand entrance into the world on August 7, 1955, in Des Arc, Arkansas, joining Jessie and Lucille Hobbs as the caboose of their lively family of six kids. In June of 1961, the Hobbs crew packed up and set roots in Rupert, Idaho.

At the age of 14, Fred discovered his lifelong love affair with music. Armed with nothing but his ears and determination, he taught himself to play guitar—and just for good measure, he picked up bass and drums, too. Alongside his brothers Lloyd and Buddy, he formed a band called The Fugitives, starting off on drums before leveling up to lead guitarist (clearly the more glamorous role).

 He went on to shred as lead guitarist at The Blue Room with The Hager Twins from the show Hee Haw and played alongside legends like Patsy Sledd and Ferlin Husky. He had a superpower of hearing a song once and playing it note-for-note. And if that wasn’t enough, he’d throw his guitar around his back mid-performance and keep playing—because of course he could.

Fred’s love for music never skipped a beat. Even in his later years, you could find him jamming in his mancave or lighting up the local bar stage. But music wasn’t his only talent—Fred was also a certified genius. Literally. He joined Mensa in his twenties, but you’d never hear it from him; he preferred to blow your mind casually during Jeopardy or any game night Trivia with friends and family.

On June 21, 1974, Fred’s world got a little wilder—in the best way—with the arrival of his first daughter, Jessica. She inherited his sense of adventure, especially when it came to “quick” road trips that somehow stretched over ten hours. Like her dad, she finds peace in the wilderness and joy in quietly observing wild animals. She lives by one of his favorite unspoken rules: leave no trace, take only memories.

Then, a few short years later, his second daughter, Jamie, arrived on February 18, 1977—a gentle soul with Fred’s soft-spoken nature and sharp wit. She shares his love of books and, like her dad, built a collection of hats—each one a small tribute to personality and story.

Both daughters carry pieces of their father with them—and will miss him deeply.

A man of character and work ethic, Fred spent 25 years at McCain’s—earning a nearly mythical status by only calling in sick once. (And even then, we suspect it was just to prove he was human.)

In 1981, he met the love of his life, Diane. The two dated for a over sixteen years. Diane was in no hurry to get hitched, but after several proposals and nearly two decades together, Fred finally whisked her off on a Tuesday to the Rupert County Courthouse, where they officially sealed the deal in a whirlwind ceremony on November 23, 1999. As they liked to joke, “Diane wasn’t even pregnant!”

Fred was gentle, kind, and never judgmental. He could talk philosophy, science, music, or just shoot out a witty one-liner that made your day. He was a man of deep talent and even deeper humility—a rare combo that made him unforgettable.

Now, Heaven gets to hear his music and his wit for eternity. And just as Fred requested, we’ll close with his final wisecrack:
"I TOLD YOU I WAS SICK!"

Fred is survived by his wife Diane Hobbs of Rupert, ID; sisters Bonnie (Rod) Latta of Heyburn, ID and Jeannie “Mug” (Dennis) Aldrich of Rupert, ID; daughters Jessica (Bill) Garner and Jamie (Damien) Garrett of Kuna, ID; stepdaughter Shanda (Sam) Chapa of Paul, ID; stepson Erin Askew of Nampa, ID; thirteen grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents Jessie and Lucille Hobbs, and brothers Lloyd, Buddy, and Tom Hobbs.

Please join us to celebrate Fred’s life:
August 9, 2025
4:00–7:00 PM at Lex Kunau Park (next to Cal Ranch)
It’s a potluck—chicken, plates, water, and utensils provided. Bring a dish if you’d like, and your favorite non-glass beverage of choice.

Condolences:

It was my pleasure to enjoy all the playing time with Fred at Shakers. So laid back and professional. and definately a dear sweet gentleman. I'll miss ole Fred. my deepest condolences. sincerely, Kay

Our sincerest condolences to Fred’s family. We hope you have peace with his memories and the love of family & friends. R.I.P. our dear friend!...Gene& Juanita Sorg

I remember Fred many years ago playing in his band.He was a very talented muscian..Then when he worked at Mc cains in Maintains. RIP life well lived .Prayers for his family. Marjorie Jensen

Aunt Kay I was touched by the obituary that you posted for Uncle Fred.  It was very heartfelt.  I myself just found out that my dad passed away and now Uncle Fred.  I am proud to have known him and his music and songs were very nice.  God Bless him and his family.  Rock on Uncle Fred and best wishes to you Aunt Kay and yours.  Tom J. Hobbs

So sorry prayers and condolences to your families R I P Fred. Patti Thacker